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Since 2013, grocery stores and certain other food retailers in Alameda County have not been allowed to provide single-use plastic carryout bags at checkout, and the results have been great for our local environment!

As of May 1, 2017, this ordinance expanded to include ALL retail stores in Alameda County, and as of November 1, 2017, also includes all eating establishments and food delivery services.

To learn more about the ordinance, visit the Ordinance Overview or select from the following links:

For Restaurants & Eating Establishments:

For Shoppers:

Plastic bags are one of the most common litter items found in our waterways, and plastic pollution is a growing threat to oceans and marine life. Plastic bags take hundreds of years to break down or decompose, causing a cumulative litter problem. Shopping with reusable bags helps reduce litter and waste, protects creeks and the bay, and conserves natural resources.

Thank you for doing your part!

Is your local store or eating establishment following the law?

If you are aware of a retail store or eating establishment distributing single-use carryout bags, not charging for paper or reusable bags, and/or not itemizing bag charges on your receipt, we want to hear from you! We are relying on consumers to help us reach out to shops and restaurants not complying with the new law.

Contact Us

If you have questions about the ordinance, we'd like to help you understand the changes and get the assistance you need. Please complete our online contact form, call 510-891-6575 or email us at bags@stopwaste.org.